Kees Smit Tuinmeubelen is building a 100,000-square-metre distribution centre at XL Businesspark Twente. The company says it has been behind the times for years in terms of logistics. "From this building, we want to optimise the logistics processes."
Kees Smit Tuinmeubelen currently operates from several branches in Amersfoort, Almelo and Vroomshoop. At the XL Businesspark, the company wants to combine its branches in Twente. The multi-storey building will have a 7,000-square-metre Experience Centre and a 1,500-square-metre shop for accessories. The office will cover 3,000 square metres. The remaining space is intended for logistics processes.
Crucial for expansion'
According to owner Henk Smit, this step is essential for the company's expansion. "We have developed strongly as a national brand. Logistically, this has left us a bit behind the times for years. From these premises, we want to optimise the logistics processes and expand our brand even further. In addition, we exchange a huge amount of information in short lines with each other in our company. In fact, between all departments. This joining of forces is the basis for our growth as a company. In a new multi-storey building at the XL Businesspark, this is possible."
Waterborne transport
Kees Smit Tuinmeubelen sees the location of the business park as an advantage for the future. Eventually, it wants up to 85 per cent of its total incoming goods to come via water transport. The loading and unloading quay on the Twente Canal offers a solution for this.
Environmental permit
The company is entering into a development agreement with the XL Businesspark. The plot will cover about 4.5 hectares. The new site will be subject to an environmental permit procedure.
Image: The current Experience Center of Kees Smit Garden Furniture in Almelo
